Developing device and image forming apparatus including the same

Abstract

The present invention provides a developing device and an image forming device including the developing device. The developing device is detachably supported by the image forming device. The developing device includes: a housing capable of accommodating a developer therein; at least one rotating member rotatably provided in the housing; a first support shaft provided at an axial end of the rotating member and formed of a conductive member; and a support member having a first bearing portion for supporting the first support shaft and constituting an axial side surface in the housing. The first bearing portion includes a first guiding portion. The first guiding portion protrudes outward from an outer surface of the support member and is guided toward an installation position of the developing device during installation with respect to the image forming device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a developing device that can be attached to and detached from an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or a digital multifunction peripheral. Background Art

[0002] An electrophotographic image forming apparatus includes a developing device that develops an electrostatic latent image on a photosensitive drum using toner. The developing device has a developing roller rotatably supported in its housing, and develops by supplying toner stored in the housing from the developing roller to the photosensitive drum.

[0003] If the developing roller of the developing device deteriorates, poor development occurs. Therefore, after a certain period, the developing device is replaced with a new one to maintain image quality. In addition, since a developing device integrally formed with a toner storage portion cannot develop when the toner in the toner storage portion is exhausted, it is replaced with another developing device filled with toner. Therefore, a conventional image forming apparatus has a structure in which the developing device is supported so as to be attachable and detachable, so that the developing device can be replaced.

[0004] Moreover, in order to smoothly guide the developing device to a predetermined installation position, a guiding member is provided on the housing of the developing device. In a developing device installed in the direction perpendicular to the central axis of the photosensitive drum in the image forming apparatus, the guiding member is sometimes provided on side faces on both sides in the width direction of the developing device. In addition, a rotating member such as a developing roller arranged to face the photosensitive drum is provided, and a bearing portion for supporting a support shaft of the rotating member is provided on the side face. In addition, other members such as a power receiving member for receiving a developing bias and supplying it to the developing roller are provided in the developing device. However, if not only the guiding member but also the bearing portion, the power receiving member, and other members are provided on the side face, the arrangement space for the members on the side face is insufficient, and the housing of the developing device has to be increased, thereby hindering miniaturization of the developing device. Summary of the Invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to achieve miniaturization of a developing device and an image forming apparatus including the developing device.

[0006] The present invention provides a developing device that can be detachably supported by an image forming device, and includes: a housing that can accommodate a developer therein; at least one rotating member rotatably provided in the housing; a first support shaft provided at an axial end of the rotating member and formed of a conductive member; and a support member having a first bearing portion that supports the first support shaft and constituting the axial side surface in the housing, the first bearing portion including a first guiding portion that protrudes outward from the outer surface of the support member and is guided toward the installation position of the developing device during the installation process with respect to the image forming device.

[0007] The present invention also provides an image forming device, which includes the developing device and a photosensitive drum on which a toner image is formed on the surface by the development of the developing device.

[0008] According to the present invention, miniaturization of the developing device and the image forming device including the developing device can be achieved.

[0009] This specification is appropriately referred to the drawings and is introduced by simplifying the content that summarizes the concepts described in the following detailed description. The intention of this specification is not to limit the important features and essential features of the subject matter described in the claims, and furthermore, the intention is not to limit the scope of the subject matter described in the claims. In addition, the object described in the claims is not limited to the embodiments that solve a part or all of the drawbacks described in any part of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of an image forming device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing a state where the top cover of the image forming device according to the embodiment of the present invention is opened.

[0012] Figure 3 It is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the image forming device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of an image forming unit included in the image forming device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 5 It is a perspective view of the image forming device according to the embodiment of the present invention, showing a state where the image forming unit is removed from the device main body.

[0015] Figure 6 It is a perspective view of a drum unit included in the image forming device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 7It is a diagram showing the sectional structure of the drum unit included in the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, and is Figure 6 a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting plane VII-VII.

[0017] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing the state where the drum unit is mounted on the apparatus main body.

[0018] Figure 9 It is a perspective view of the developing device according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the left front.

[0019] Figure 10 It is a perspective view of the developing device according to an embodiment of the present invention as viewed from the right rear.

[0020] Figure 11 It is a top view of the developing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing the internal structure of the developing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and is Figure 9 a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting plane XII-XII.

[0022] Figure 13 It is a partial enlarged view of the left side portion of the developing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 14 It is a left side view of the developing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing the state where the side cover is removed.

[0024] Figure 15 It is a perspective view of the right side portion of the developing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, enlarged.

[0025] Figure 16 It is a perspective view showing the state where the shaft cover is removed from the right side portion of the developing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 17 It is an enlarged view of the left side portion of the developing device, enlarged in the top view of the developing device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 18 It is a partial enlarged view of the handle included in the developing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and is Figure 17 a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting plane XVIII-XVIII.

[0028] Figure 19 It is a partial enlarged view of the handle included in the developing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and is Figure 18 a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting plane XIX-XIX.

[0029] Figure 20FIG. 0 is a diagram showing the internal structure of the developing device according to an embodiment of the present invention, and is Figure 9 a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting plane XX-XX.

[0030] Figure 21 FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the central portion of the upper surface of the developing device, which is enlarged in the perspective view of the developing device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 22 FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the developing device according to the embodiment of the present invention, and is a diagram showing the bottom surface of the developing device.

[0032] Figure 23 FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the drum unit included in the image forming device according to the embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0033] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to appropriate drawings. The embodiments described below are merely examples for embodying the present invention and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention. In addition, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the up-down direction 7, the front-back direction 8, and the left-right direction 9 shown in each drawing will be used for explanation. In addition, in Figures 1 to 5 the state where the image forming device 10 can be used ( Figure 1 the state shown), the vertical direction is defined as the up-down direction 7, and the front-back direction 8 and the left-right direction 9 (width direction 9) are defined in the set state.

[0034] [First]

[0035] Figures 1 to 3 FIG. 30 shows the image forming device 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The image forming device 10 is at least a device having a printing function. For example, it is a printer that forms a single-color image on a sheet such as printing paper by an electrophotographic method. The image forming device 10 prints an image on the printing paper based on image data input from the outside via a communication unit (not shown). In addition, the image forming device 10 is not limited to a single-color printer, and may also be a color printer that forms a color image. In addition, the image forming device 10 may be a digital multifunction device having various functions such as a facsimile machine and a copying machine in addition to the printing function.

[0036] Figure 1 and Figure 2 are perspective views showing the appearance of the image forming device 10, Figure 1 showing the state where the top cover 12 and the front cover 13 are closed, Figure 2 showing the state where the top cover 12 and the front cover 13 are opened. In addition, Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the device main body 11. In addition, in Figure 3 the illustration of the top cover 12 is omitted.

[0037] As Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown, the image forming apparatus 10 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape that is long in the width direction 9, and includes: a device main body 11 on which various parts for performing image forming processing are mounted; a top cover 12 provided on the upper part of the device main body 11; and a front cover 13 provided on the front surface of the device main body 11.

[0038] As Figure 2 shown, an opening 21 communicating with the inside is formed in the upper part of the device main body 11, and the top cover 12 is provided so as to be able to open and close the opening 21. The top cover 12 is supported so as to be able to pivot about a hinge 24 provided at the rear end portion of the upper part of the device main body 11 between an open position ( Figure 2 the position shown) for opening the opening 21 and a closed position ( Figure 1 the position shown) for closing the opening 21. If the top cover 12 is rotated upward (open direction) to open the opening 21, the image forming unit 50 and the like described later mounted inside the device main body 11 are exposed. In this state, the user can take out the developing device 70 supported by the image forming unit 50 from the inside of the device main body 11.

[0039] In addition, an opening 22 communicating with the inside is formed in the lower part of the front surface of the device main body 11, and the front cover 13 is provided so as to be able to open and close the opening 22. The front cover 13 is supported so as to be able to pivot about a hinge 25 provided at the lower end portion of the front side of the device main body 11 between an open position ( Figure 2 the position shown) for opening the opening 22 and a closed position ( Figure 1 the position shown) for closing the opening 22. If the front cover 13 is rotated forward (open direction) to open the opening 22, printing paper can be placed inside the device main body 11 through the opening 22.

[0040] As Figure 3 shown, the image forming apparatus 10 mainly includes an image forming unit 50, a fixing unit 31, a paper feed tray 32, a supply unit 33, an LSU (Laser Scanner Unit) 34, a paper output tray 35 (see Figure 1 ), a plurality of conveying rollers 37 provided in the conveying path 36, and a discharging roller 38 provided at the end of the conveying path 36. They are mounted inside a cover of the outer frame of the image forming apparatus 10 or the device main body 11 including an internal frame. In addition, in Figure 3 , the path indicated by the dotted line extending upward from the supply unit 33 is the conveying path 36.

[0041] Figure 4It is a perspective view showing the image forming unit 50. The image forming unit 50 forms an image by an electrophotographic method and includes a drum unit 60 and a developing device 70. In the present embodiment, the image forming unit 50 is detachably supported by the apparatus main body 11 in a replaceable manner.

[0042] In addition, when the developer stored in the developing device 70 becomes empty, it is necessary to replace it with another developing device 70 filled with the developer. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the developing device 70 is supported by the apparatus main body 11 in a detachable manner with respect to the apparatus main body 11. Specifically, the developing device 70 is detachably attached to the drum unit 60 (an example of a mounting member) mounted on the apparatus main body 11. In addition, when maintaining the inside of the image forming apparatus 10, the developing device 70 is also removed as needed. Figure 2 and Figure 3 shows a state in which the image forming unit 50 is mounted on the apparatus main body 11. In addition, Figure 5 shows a state in which the image forming unit 50 is removed from the apparatus main body 11.

[0043] Figure 6 It is a perspective view showing the drum unit 60. In addition, Figure 7 is Figure 6 a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting plane VII-VII in [figures], showing the cross-sectional structure of the drum unit 60.

[0044] As Figure 6 and Figure 7 shown, the drum unit 60 includes a photosensitive drum 61, a charging unit 62, a transfer roller 63, and a housing 64. The photosensitive drum 61, the charging unit 62, and the transfer roller 63 are supported on the housing 64. In addition, the developing device 70 is detachably supported on a developing support portion 65 provided integrally with the housing 64.

[0045] The housing 64 is, for example, a molded product formed of a synthetic resin and has: a first base frame 641 extending in the left-right direction 9; and a pair of support frames 642 respectively erected at both end portions in the left-right direction 9 of the first base frame 641. Each support frame 642 is, for example, formed in a plate shape. Each support frame 642 is formed of a non-conductive insulating member. Each support frame 642 extends in the front-rear direction 8, and the photosensitive drum 61 and the transfer roller 63 are rotatably supported in a state of being in pressure contact with each other at the rear portion of each support frame 642. In addition, the charging unit 62 is mounted on the upper portion of the rear portion of each support frame 642. The charging unit 62 is arranged to face the outer peripheral surface of the photosensitive drum 61 and is mounted so as to straddle each support frame 642.

[0046] As Figure 6 and Figure 7As shown, a developing support portion 65 is integrally formed on the front side of the housing 64. The developing support portion 65 has: a second base frame 651 formed forward from the first base frame 641 with a paper passing port 66 (refer to Figure 7 ) therebetween; and a front plate 652 forming the front portion of each support frame 642. If a developing device 70 is installed on the developing support portion 65, the lower surface 716 (refer to Figure 12 ) of the developing device 70 is supported by the second base frame 651. In this case, the lower surface 716 is a supported surface supported by the drum unit 60.

[0047] The paper passing port 66 is a through-opening formed between the first base frame 641 and the second base frame 651, through which the printing paper supplied from the paper feed tray 32 passes and is guided to the transfer position between the photosensitive drum 61 and the transfer roller 63.

[0048] When the image forming unit 50 is installed on the apparatus main body 11 and the image forming operation is started, the photosensitive layer on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61 is uniformly charged by the charging unit 62. In addition, a laser corresponding to the image data is scanned from the LSU 34 to the photosensitive drum 61. Thus, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61. Bias voltages are respectively applied to the photosensitive drum 61 and the developing roller 74 (refer to Figure 10 ) of the developing device 70, and an electric field with a specified potential difference capable of causing the toner to fly from the developing roller 74 to the photosensitive drum 61 is formed between the photosensitive drum 61 and the developing roller 74. Due to the potential difference, the toner adheres to the electrostatic latent image from the developing roller 74, and a toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 61. An electric field with a specified potential difference is also formed between the photosensitive drum 61 and the transfer roller 63. Due to this potential difference, the toner image on the photosensitive drum 61 is transferred to the printing paper supplied from the paper feed tray 32. The printing paper with the transferred toner image is conveyed to the fixing unit 31.

[0049] The fixing unit 31 is provided downstream of the image forming unit 50 in the conveying direction of the printing paper. The fixing unit 31 fixes the toner image transferred to the printing paper to the printing paper by heat. The fixing unit 31 includes a heating roller and a pressure roller. The heating roller is heated by a heating device such as an IH heater during the fixing operation. The pressure roller applies a force to the heating roller through an elastic member. When the printing paper passes through the fixing unit 31, the fixing unit 31 presses the printing paper, and the toner is heated and melted and adheres to the printing paper. Thus, the toner image is fixed to the printing paper, and an image is formed on the printing paper.

[0050] Discharging rollers 38 are provided downstream of the fixing unit 31 in the conveying direction. The discharging rollers 38 discharge the printed paper after image formation, on which the image is fixed by the fixing unit 31, to the paper output tray 35 (refer to Figure 1 ).

[0051] The photosensitive drum 61 of the drum unit 60 deteriorates or wears each time the photosensitive layer on its surface overlaps to form an image. If the photosensitive layer deteriorates, the charging property deteriorates, and if it wears, it is not charged at a specified potential, resulting in a decrease in image quality. Therefore, it is necessary to replace the photosensitive drum 61 at a predetermined replacement timing. For this purpose, in the present embodiment, the drum unit 60 is supported by the apparatus main body 11 in a detachable manner with respect to the apparatus main body 11 so that the photosensitive drum 61 can be replaced. In addition, when maintaining the inside of the image forming apparatus 10, the drum unit 60 can also be removed as needed. Here, Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which only the drum unit 60 of the image forming unit 50 is mounted on the apparatus main body 11. Therefore, Figure 8 the developing device 70 is not shown.

[0052] As Figure 8 shown, guide grooves 111 are formed on the inner surfaces 15 on both sides in the left-right direction 9 of the apparatus main body 11, and the guide grooves 111 are used to guide the drum unit 60 when the drum unit 60 is mounted inside the apparatus main body 11 from the opening 21. The guide grooves 111 function as follows: when the drum unit 60 is removed from the apparatus main body 11, the drum unit 60 is also guided toward the opening 21 side, making it easy to take out. When viewed in cross-section at the upper end edge portion of the inner surface 15 where the guide groove 111 is formed, the guide groove 111 extends obliquely rearward downward from the funnel-shaped insertion port 113. In addition, although Figure 8 the guide groove 111 formed on the inner surface 15A on the right side is shown, the same-shaped guide groove 111 is also formed on the inner surface 15B on the left side (see Figure 5 ) on the opposite side.

[0053] The guide groove 111 is formed in such a manner that the degree of inclination gradually becomes gentler toward the mounting position of the drum unit 60 ( Figure 8 the position shown, hereinafter referred to as the unit mounting position). Specifically, the guide groove 111 has: a first groove 111A formed substantially straight from the insertion port 113 to the first bending point P1; a second groove 111B inclined more gently than the first groove 111A from the first bending point P1 to the second bending point P2; and a third groove 111C inclined more gently than the second groove 111B from the second bending point P2 to the unit mounting position.

[0054] As Figure 6 shown, the drum unit 60 is provided with guide members 644 that are inserted into the guide grooves 111 when mounted on the apparatus main body 11 and when removed from the apparatus main body 11. The guide members 644 are vertically provided on the outer surfaces of a pair of support frames 642 that constitute the outer shell 64. The guide members 644 are members in the shape of a boss or a pin that are vertically and uprightly provided on the outer surface of the support frame 642.

[0055] On the outer surface of the support frame 642, the guide member 644 is disposed on the rear side. The drum unit 60 is inserted until the guide member 644 is disposed at the terminal of the guide groove 111.

[0056] As Figure 8 shown, another guide groove 112 branched from the guide groove 111 is formed on the inner surface 15A. Figure 8 The guide groove 112 shown is formed on the inner surface 15A on the right side, but the guide groove 112 formed in the same manner is also formed on the inner surface 15B on the opposite left side. The guide groove 112 functions in the same manner as the guide groove 111, that is, when the drum unit 60 is installed from the opening 21 into the interior of the apparatus main body 11, the guide groove 112 guides the drum unit 60 to the unit installation position, and when the drum unit 60 is removed from the apparatus main body 11, the guide groove 112 guides the drum unit 60 to the opening 21 side.

[0057] The guide groove 112 extends obliquely rearward downward from the first bending point P1 in the guide groove 111. The guide groove 112 is formed to gradually widen obliquely rearward from the connecting portion with the guide groove 111, that is, the upper end opening 114. In other words, the guide groove 112 is formed in a shape that expands from the upper end opening 114 to the rear end obliquely.

[0058] The upper groove wall surface of the guide groove 112 is a guide surface 112A, which is used to guide a bearing portion 77 (refer to Figure 13 , Figure 15 ) provided in the developing device 70 to an installation position P11 determined on the drum unit 60 when the developing device 70 is installed in the apparatus main body 11. The guide surface 112A is substantially parallel to the second groove 111B of the guide groove 111.

[0059] In addition, the lower groove wall surface of the guide groove 112 is a guide surface 112B, which is used to guide a guide member 645 (refer to Figure 6 ) provided in the drum unit 60 downward when the drum unit 60 is installed in the apparatus main body 11. In addition, when the developing device 70 is installed in the apparatus main body 11, the guide surface 112B guides guide portions 78, 791 (refer to Figure 13 , Figure 15 ) provided in the developing device 70 downward.

[0060] As Figure 6 shown, a guide member 645 that is inserted into the guide groove 112 when the drum unit 60 is installed in and removed from the apparatus main body 11 is provided in the drum unit 60. The guide member 645 is vertically provided on the outer surface of each of a pair of support frames 642 constituting the housing 64. The guide member 645 is a member in a boss shape or a pin shape that is vertically provided on the outer surface of the support frame 642.

[0061] On the outer surface of the support frame 642, the guide member 645 is disposed on the front side with respect to the guide member 644. When the drum unit 60 is installed in the apparatus main body 11, first, the guide member 644 is inserted into the guide groove 111 from the insertion port 113, and then the guide member 645 is inserted into the guide groove 111. During the installation of the drum unit 60, the guide member 644 is guided from the first groove 111A through the second groove 111B along the third groove 111C toward the unit installation position ( Figure 8 the position shown). On the other hand, if the guide member 645 reaches the first bending point P1 of the guide groove 111 during the installation of the drum unit 60, it enters the guide groove 112 from the upper end opening 114 and is guided substantially downward along the guide surface 112B of the guide groove 112.

[0062] And, if the drum unit 60 is inserted to Figure 8 the unit installation position shown, the drum unit 60 is locked at the unit installation position by a locking mechanism (not shown). That is, the drum unit 60 is positioned at the unit installation position. Further, if an unlocking member (not shown) provided in the apparatus main body 11 is operated, the locking of the locking mechanism is released. Thereby, the drum unit 60 can be detached upward from the unit installation position and can be taken out from the opening 21 to the outside.

[0063] In addition, as Figure 7 shown, a guide groove 646 for guiding the bearing portion 77 of the developing device 70 (see Figure 13 , Figure 15 ) to the installation position P11 and a stopper 647 provided at the terminal of the guide groove 646 are formed on the support frame 642. The guide groove 646 is formed in the support frame 642 so as to divide the support frame 642 into a rear side portion and a front plate 652 on the front side. The stopper 647 positions the bearing portion 77 at the installation position P11 when the bearing portion 77 is guided to the installation position P11. When the developing device 70 is installed in the apparatus main body 11, the stopper 647 abuts against the bearing portion 77, and the movement of the bearing portion 77 in the insertion direction is restricted by the stopper 647. Thereby, the developing device 70 is positioned on the drum unit 60. Further, the developing device 70 is locked to the drum unit 60 by a locking mechanism (not shown) provided in the drum unit 60. In addition, if a locking release lever 67 provided in the drum unit 60 is operated, the locking of the locking mechanism is released. Thereby, the developing device 70 can be detached upward from the apparatus main body 11 and can be taken out from the opening 21 to the outside.

[0064] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the developing device 70 viewed from the left front side, Figure 10is a perspective view of the developing device 70 as viewed from the rear right side, Figure 11 is a top view of the developing device 70. In addition, Figure 12 is Figure 11 a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting plane XII-XII, showing the cross-sectional structure of the central portion of the developing device 70.

[0065] The developing device 70 attaches toner to the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 61, develops the electrostatic latent image using the toner, and forms a toner image as a visible image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 61. As Figure 12 shown, the developing device 70 includes a housing 71 (an example of a casing), an agitation member 72, a supply roller 73 (an example of a rotating member), and a developing roller 74 (an example of a rotating member). The agitation member 72, the supply roller 73, and the developing roller 74 are supported on the housing 71 so as to be rotatable.

[0066] The housing 71 is, for example, a molded product formed of synthetic resin. As Figures 9 to 11 shown, the housing 71 is formed in a shape that is long in the left-right direction 9 (the long side direction). A developer containing toner is housed inside the housing 71. That is, the housing 71 not only serves as a casing for supporting the developing roller 74 and the like, but also serves as a developer container (also referred to as a toner container) for housing the developer.

[0067] As Figure 12 shown, the agitation member 72 is disposed on the front side inside the housing 71. The agitation member 72 is rotatably supported by a pair of support frames 711 (see Figures 9 to 11 ), and the pair of support frames 711 are respectively provided on both sides in the left-right direction 9 (the axial direction) of the housing 71. In addition, the pair of support frames 711 (an example of a pair of support members) constitute each side surface on both sides in the left-right direction 9 of the housing 71.

[0068] At both end portions in the width direction of the shaft member 721 of the agitation member 72, support shafts 722 that are rotatably supported by the support frames 711 are provided (see Figure 14 ). The support shaft 722L on the left side of the agitation member 72 is rotatably supported in a bearing hole (not shown) formed in the left support frame 711L. As Figure 14 shown, the support shaft 722L penetrates the bearing hole and protrudes to the outside of the support frame 711L. A transmission gear 82 described later is mounted on the support shaft 722L.

[0069] As Figure 12As shown, a film-shaped blade portion 723 perpendicular to the shaft member 721 is provided on the shaft member 721 of the stirring member 72. If a rotational driving force is input to the stirring member 72 from the outside, the stirring member 72 rotates, and the developer accommodated in the housing 71 is stirred by the blade portion 723. By stirring the developer with the stirring member 72, charge is imparted to the toner contained in the developer.

[0070] As Figure 9 shown, a side cover 75 is mounted on the support frame 711L on the left side of the housing 71.

[0071] Figure 13 is a partially enlarged view of the left side portion of the developing device 70. Figure 14 is a left side view of the developing device 70, showing the state where the side cover 75 is removed.

[0072] As Figure 13 shown, the side cover 75 is mounted on the support frame 711L so as to cover the left side surface of the support frame 711L. As Figure 14 shown, a transmission mechanism 80 composed of a plurality of gears 81 to 85 is provided inside the side cover 75, that is, between the side cover 75 and the support frame 711L. Each of the gears 81 to 85 constituting the transmission mechanism 80 is rotatably supported by the support frame 711L.

[0073] As Figure 14 shown, the transmission mechanism 80 has an input portion 76 for inputting a driving force from the outside. That is, the input portion 76 is provided on the support frame 711L. The input portion 76 is, for example, a coupling (connector). A cylindrical portion 751 that penetrates the input portion 76 and exposes to the outside is formed on the side cover 75 (see Figure 13 ). As Figure 13 shown, in the state where the side cover 75 is mounted on the support frame 711L, the input portion 76 exposes to the outside through the cylindrical portion 751.

[0074] If the developing device 70 is mounted on the device main body 11, a drive output portion (not shown) provided on the device main body 11 is connected to the input portion 76. Thus, the rotational driving force of a drive source such as a motor is input to the input portion 76 via the drive output portion. The input portion 76 has an input gear 81 provided coaxially with the input portion 76 (see Figure 14 ). That is, the transmission mechanism 80 has an input gear 81. If the rotational driving force is input to the input portion 76, the rotational driving force is transmitted from the input gear 81 to the other transmission gears 82 to 85 constituting the transmission mechanism 80.

[0075] As Figure 14As shown, the transfer mechanism 80 has a plurality of transfer gears 82 to 85. Each of the transfer gears 82 to 85 is arranged on the outer surface of the support frame 711L. The transfer gear 82 is mounted on the support shaft 722L of the stirring member 72 to transfer the rotational driving force to the stirring member 72. The transfer gear 83 is mounted on the end of the rotating shaft 732 (an example of the second support shaft) of the supply roller 73 to transfer the rotational driving force to the supply roller 73. The transfer gear 84 is mounted on the end of the rotating shaft 742 (refer to Figure 12 ) of the developing roller 74 to transfer the rotational driving force to the developing roller 74. In addition, the transfer gear 85 is rotatably supported on the support frame 711L in a state of meshing with the transfer gear 82. The transfer gear 85 transfers the rotational driving force to the rotating member 90 provided on the support frame 711L.

[0076] If the rotational driving force is input to the input portion 76 and the rotational driving force is transferred from the input gear 81 to the other transfer gears 82 to 85 constituting the transfer mechanism 80, the rotational driving force is transferred to the stirring member 72, the supply roller 73, the developing roller 74, and the rotating member 90, and the stirring member 72, the supply roller 73, the developing roller 74, and the rotating member 90 rotate.

[0077] As Figure 12 shown, the supply roller 73 is arranged on the front side (the direction opposite to the insertion direction of the developing device 70) of the developing roller 74 and on the rear side of the stirring member 72. The supply roller 73 is a roller member that carries the toner contained in the developer on the outer peripheral surface and rotates. The supply roller 73 is rotatably supported by a pair of support frames 711. The supply roller 73 carries the developer stored in the housing 71 on the outer peripheral surface by rotation and transports the developer to the relative position with the developing roller 74.

[0078] The supply roller 73 has: a cylindrical roller body 731 formed of an elastic member having conductivity; and a conductive rotating shaft 732 arranged at the center of the roller body 731. The roller body 731 is formed of an elastic member such as polyurethane in which carbon is moderately dispersed, for example. In addition, the rotating shaft 732 is a conductive metal shaft. Both end portions of the rotating shaft 732 are rotatably supported in bearing holes (not shown) provided in a pair of support frames 711. In order to carry the charged toner on the outer peripheral surface and to move the toner from the supply roller 73 to the developing roller 74, a predetermined bias voltage (hereinafter referred to as the supply bias voltage) is applied to the supply roller 73.

[0079] In the present embodiment, in a state where the developing device 70 is mounted on the device main body 11, from the supply terminal 117 provided on the device main body 11 (refer to Figure 8)Apply the supply bias to the rotation shaft 732 of the supply roller 73. Specifically, the supply terminal 117 is disposed at a position that contacts a later-described guide portion 791 (see Figure 15 , Figure 16 ) when the developing device 70 is in the installed state. If the developing device 70 is installed in the device main body 11, the guide portion 791 contacts the supply terminal 117, and the supply bias is applied from the supply terminal 117 to the rotation shaft 732 via the guide portion 791, the guide member 79, and the connecting portion 792.

[0080] The developing roller 74 is disposed on the rear side inside the housing 71. The developing roller 74 is a roller member that carries the toner contained in the developer on its outer peripheral surface and rotates. The developing roller 74 is rotatably supported by a pair of support frames 711. An opening 713 for exposing the developing roller 74 to the outside is formed on the side surface of the rear side of the housing 71. In a state where the developing device 70 is installed in the device main body 11, the developing roller 74 faces the photosensitive drum 61 with a predetermined gap therebetween.

[0081] The developing roller 74 includes: a cylindrical roller body 741 formed of an elastic member having conductivity; and a conductive rotation shaft 742 (an example of a first support shaft) disposed at the center of the roller body 741. The roller body 741 is formed of an elastic member such as polyurethane in which carbon is moderately dispersed, for example. In addition, the rotation shaft 742 is a conductive metal shaft. Both end portions of the rotation shaft 742 can be rotatably supported in bearing portions 77 (77L, 77R) provided on the pair of support frames 711 (see Figure 11 ). In order to move the toner from the supply roller 73 to the developing roller 74, a predetermined bias (hereinafter referred to as a developing bias) is applied to the developing roller 74. Due to the potential difference between the developing bias and the supply bias, the charged toner is supplied from the supply roller 73 to the developing roller 74.

[0082] In the present embodiment, in a state where the developing device 70 is installed in the device main body 11, the developing bias is applied from a supply terminal 116 provided on the device main body 11 (see Figure 8 ) to the rotation shaft 742 of the developing roller 74. Specifically, the supply terminal 116 is disposed at a position that contacts a later-described bearing portion 77R (see Figure 15 ) when the developing device 70 is in the installed state. If the developing device 70 is installed in the device main body 11, the guide portion 77R2 of the bearing portion 77R (see Figure 15 ) contacts the supply terminal 116, and the developing bias is applied from the supply terminal 116 to the rotation shaft 742 via the guide portion 77R2.

[0083] As Figure 14As shown, a bearing portion 77L (an example of a first bearing portion) is provided in the support frame 711L. The bearing portion 77L is integrally formed with the support frame 711L and has a cylindrical guide portion 77L1 (an example of a first guide portion) that protrudes outward from the outer side surface of the support frame 711L. The shaft end portion on the left side of the rotary shaft 742 is inserted into a bearing hole formed inside the bearing portion 77L, whereby the shaft end portion is supported so as to be rotatable. In the present embodiment, the guide portion 77L1 of the bearing portion 77L also serves as a guide member for guiding the developing device 70 to the installation position P11 determined on the drum unit 60 together with the guide portion 77R2 of the bearing portion 77R described later during the installation of the developing device 70 onto the device main body 11.

[0084] In addition, as Figure 13 shown, a guide portion 78 integrally formed with the side cover 75 is provided in the side cover 75. The guide portion 78 is provided at a position spaced a predetermined interval forward (in a direction opposite to the insertion direction of the developing device 70) from the guide portion 77L1 of the bearing portion 77L. The guide portion 78 is a cylindrical member that protrudes outward from the outer side surface of the side cover 75. In the present embodiment, the guide portion 78 guides a portion on the front end side of the developing device 70 downward together with the guide portion 791 of the guide member 79 described later during the installation of the developing device 70 onto the device main body 11.

[0085] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the right side portion of the developing device 70 enlarged.

[0086] As Figure 15 shown, a bearing portion 77R (an example of a first bearing portion) is provided in the support frame 711R. The bearing portion 77R is an example of a first guide portion. The bearing portion 77R has a cylindrical portion 77R1 integrally formed with the support frame 711R and a guide portion 77R2 (an example of a first guide portion) that is guided during the installation of the developing device 70 onto the device main body 11. The cylindrical portion 77R1 protrudes outward from the outer side surface of the support frame 711R. The shaft end portion 742R on the right side of the rotary shaft 742 is inserted into the inner hole of the cylindrical portion 77R1, whereby the shaft end portion 742R is supported so as to be rotatable.

[0087] In a state where the rotary shaft 742 passes through the cylindrical portion 77R1, the shaft end portion 742R penetrates the cylindrical portion 77R1 and exposes to the outside. A cylindrical guide portion 77R2 is installed on this exposed portion. The guide portion 77R2 is formed of a conductive member, for example. In the present embodiment, the guide portion 77R2 is used to guide the developing device 70 to the installation position P11 determined on the drum unit 60 during the installation of the developing device 70 onto the device main body 11.

[0088] In addition, as Figure 15As shown, a guiding portion 791 is provided on the support frame 711R. Specifically, a guiding member 79 formed of a conductive member is fixed to the support frame 711R, and the guiding portion 791 is integrally formed on the guiding member 79. In addition, the guiding portion 791 is an example of a second guiding portion.

[0089] Figure 16 is a perspective view showing a state in which the shaft cover 712 (see Figure 15 ) has been removed from the right side portion of the developing device 70. As Figure 16 shown, a bearing hole for the right shaft end portion 732R of the rotation shaft 732 that supports the supply roller 73 is formed in the support frame 711R, and the shaft end portion 732R passes through the bearing hole. A shaft cover 712 (see Figure 15 ) is mounted on the outer surface of the support frame 711R so as to cover the shaft end portion 732R. In addition, in Figure 15 , the member surrounded by the thick solid line is the shaft cover 712.

[0090] As Figure 16 shown, the guiding member 79 is mounted on the outer surface of the support frame 711R. In Figure 16 , the member surrounded by the thick solid line is the guiding member 79. The guiding member 79 is formed of a conductive member and has a guiding portion 791 and a connecting portion 792. The connecting portion 792 is connected to the shaft end portion 732R that projects outward from the support frame 711R, whereby the conductive rotation shaft 732 and the conductive guiding member 79 are also electrically connected.

[0091] The guiding portion 791 is provided at a position on the front side with respect to the bearing portion 77R and separated by a predetermined interval. The guiding portion 791 is a cylindrical member that projects outward from the outer side surface of the support frame 711R. In the present embodiment, the guiding portion 791 guides a part of the front end side of the developing device 70 downward during the process of mounting the developing device 70 to the device main body 11.

[0092] In addition, as Figure 15 and Figure 16 shown, a lid member (cover member) 717 for closing a toner filling port formed in the support frame 711R is provided on the support frame 711R. The toner filling port communicates with the inside of the housing 71, and toner is filled into the inside from the toner filling port.

[0093] As described above, the developing device 70 of the present embodiment has bearing portions 77 (77L, 77R) provided on a pair of support frames 711. Therefore, in a state where the device main body 11 is mounted on the drum unit 60, if the developing device 70 is inserted into the device main body 11, the guide portions 77L1 of the bearing portion 77L and the guide portion 77R2 of the bearing portion 77R are oriented along the guide surface 112A of the device main body 11 toward the mounting position P11 (refer to Figure 8 ).

[0094] Specifically, if the guide portions 77L1 and 77R2 inserted into the guide groove 111 from the insertion port 113 reach the first bending point P1 of the guide groove 111, the guide portions 77L1 and 77R2 enter the guide groove 112 from the upper end opening 114. Thereafter, they are guided along the guide surface 112A of the guide groove 112 toward the mounting position P11. If the guiding by the guide surface 112A ends and the guide portions 77L1 and 77R2 enter the guide groove 646, they are guided by the guide groove 646 to the mounting position P11. And if the guide portions 77L1 and 77R2 are guided to the mounting position P11, the guide portions 77L1 and 77R2 are restricted at the mounting position P11 by a stopper 647.

[0095] In addition, during the process of mounting the developing device 70 to the device main body 11, if the guide portions 78, 791 enter the guide groove 112, they are guided generally downward along the guide surface 112B of the guide groove 112.

[0096] Thereby, the developing device 70 is positioned in the drum unit 60, and the developing device 70 is locked to the drum unit 60 by a locking mechanism (not shown).

[0097] In addition, in the developing device 70 of the present embodiment, the guide portion 77L1 provided on the bearing portion 77L and the guide portion 77R2 provided on the shaft end portion 742R serve as members to be guided when mounting the developing device 70. In other words, the bearing portions 77L, 77R also serve as guide members of the developing device 70 when assembling and disassembling with respect to the device main body 11. Therefore, the members provided on the side surface portion of the developing device 70 can be reduced, and as a result, the housing 71 of the developing device 70 can be made compact.

[0098] In addition, in the present embodiment, in the installed state of the developing device 70, the guiding portion 791 is in contact with the supply terminal 117, and the supply bias voltage is applied to the rotary shaft 732 from the supply terminal 117 via the guiding portion 791, the guiding member 79, and the connecting portion 792. Further, the guiding portion 77R2 of the bearing portion 77R is in contact with the supply terminal 116, and the developing bias voltage is applied to the rotary shaft 742 from the supply terminal 116 via the guiding portion 77R2. That is, the guiding member 79 also serves as a power receiving terminal (power receiving portion) for the supply bias voltage, and the bearing portion 77R also serves as a power receiving terminal (power receiving portion) for the developing bias voltage. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide each power receiving terminal on the side surface portion of the developing device 70, and the members provided on the side surface portion can be further reduced. As a result, further compactification of the housing 71 of the developing device 70 can be achieved.

[0099] [Second]

[0100] As Figure 9 shown, two handles 200 are provided on the developing device 70. The handle 200 is a portion that is held by a user's finger when the developing device 70 is installed on the device main body 11, pulled out from the device main body 11 and removed, or grasped or carried.

[0101] The handle 200 is provided on the front surface 714 (an example of a side surface) on the front side of the housing 71. Specifically, the two handles 200 are disposed at the upper end portion of the front surface 714 at a predetermined interval in the left - right direction 9. In the present embodiment, the two handles 200 are respectively provided at both ends in the left - right direction 9 of the upper end portion. Each handle 200 is integrally formed with the housing 71. In addition, in the present embodiment, an example in which the handle 200 is provided on the housing 71 is described, but the handle 200 may be provided on other parts of the developing device 70 as long as it can function as a handle of the developing device 70 without being provided on the housing 71. Further, the mounting position of the handle 200 is not limited to the front surface 714 of the housing 71, and may be, for example, the upper surface 715, the lower surface 716, or the left and right side surfaces (for example, a pair of support frames 711) of the housing 71. In addition, the number of handles 200 is not limited to two, and may be, for example, one, or three or more. Further, when the handle 200 is one, the handle 200 is preferably provided at the center of the upper end portion of the front surface 714. In addition, when the number of handles 200 is three or more, the handles 200 are preferably provided at equal intervals in the left - right direction 9 in the upper end portion of the front surface 714.

[0102] Figure 17 is an enlarged view of the left side portion of the developing device 70. As Figure 17 shown, the handle 200 protrudes forward from the front surface 714. The handle 200 is a plate - like member extending forward. As Figure 18 and Figure 19As shown, the upper surface 201 of the handle 200 is formed in a curved shape. Herein, Figure 18 is a partial enlarged view showing the handle 200 included in the developing device 70, and is Figure 17 a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting plane XVIII-XVIII. In addition, Figure 19 is a partial enlarged view showing the handle 200, and is Figure 18 a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting plane XIX-XIX.

[0103] In addition, in the present embodiment, an example in which the upper surface 201 of the handle 200 is formed in a curved shape is described. However, for example, the lower surface 202 of the handle 200 (refer to Figure 18 ) may be formed in a curved shape.

[0104] In the present embodiment, the handle 200 has a base portion 203 that protrudes forward from the front surface 714 and a grip portion 204 that extends forward from the base portion 203 (i.e., the protruding direction of the handle 200). As Figure 18 shown, the inclined surface 2041 on the upper side of the grip portion 204 in the upper surface 201 of the handle 200 is formed in a curved shape.

[0105] As Figure 17 and Figure 18 shown, the base portion 203 has an upper surface 2031 (an example of a first upper surface) perpendicular to the front surface 714 of the housing 71. In addition, as Figure 18 shown, the grip portion 204 is bent obliquely upward toward the front side with respect to the base portion 203. That is, the grip portion 204 has an inclined surface 2041 on its upper side. The inclined surface 2041 is bent obliquely upward with respect to the upper surface 2031 of the base portion 203 and extends in the obliquely upward direction. The inclined surface 2041 forms a specified angle (an obtuse angle greater than 90 degrees) with the upper surface 2031. The angle is, for example, an angle determined within a range of 150 degrees or more and 180 degrees or less, and more preferably an angle determined within a range of 165 degrees or more and 175 degrees or less. In the handle 200, the inclined surface 2041 of the grip portion 204 is formed in a curved shape. In addition, the upper surface 2031 of the base portion is a flat surface, and the upper surface 2031 is not formed in a curved shape.

[0106] In addition, in the present embodiment, a structure in which the upper surface of the grip portion 204 is inclined obliquely upward toward the front is illustrated. However, the grip portion 204 is not limited to this shape. For example, the upper surface of the grip portion 204 may be horizontal, or may be inclined obliquely downward toward the front. Regardless of the structure, as long as the upper surface of the grip portion 204 is formed in a curved shape with its central portion recessed.

[0107] Specifically, as Figure 18 and Figure 19As shown, the inclined surface 2041 of the holding portion 204 has a flat bottom surface 2042 formed at its central portion and a curved surface 2043 provided at the outer peripheral edge portion 2044 of the holding portion 204 and continuous with the bottom surface 2042. Through the bottom surface 2042 and the curved surface 2043, the inclined surface 2041 of the holding portion 204 is integrally formed into a curved shape in which its central portion (bottom surface 2042) is recessed.

[0108] Since the handle 200 is configured in the above manner, if a user holds the handle 200 by pinching the handle 200 with the thumb and index finger of their own hand, the thumb placed on the upper side of the inclined surface 2041 of the holding portion 204 matches the curved shape, so that the holding portion 204 of the handle 200 can be firmly grasped by the index finger and thumb placed on the lower surface 202. Thus, it is easy to hold the developing device 70, and it is possible to prevent the developing device 70 from falling when the developing device 70 is assembled and disassembled. In addition, the assembly and disassembly of the developing device 70 with respect to the image forming device can be smoothly performed.

[0109] In addition, the inclined surface 2041 of the holding portion 204 (refer to Figure 18 ) is not limited to being formed into a curved shape by the bottom surface 2042 and the curved surface 2043. For example, the inclined surface 2041 may also be formed into a shape in which its central portion is the deepest part and is curved from the deepest part to the outer peripheral edge portion 2044. In addition, the inclined surface 2041 may also be formed into an arc shape of the shape of the cross-sectional plane passing through the deepest part.

[0110] In addition, a protruding portion 205 protruding vertically downward from the lower surface 202 is provided at the outer peripheral edge portion 2044 of the holding portion 204. The protruding portion 205 is provided in the entire area of the outer peripheral edge portion 2044. That is, the lower surface 202 of the handle 200 is formed into a recessed shape by the protruding portion 205. Therefore, the fingers of the user placed on the lower surface 202 can easily hook the protruding portion 205. Thus, the holding feeling when the user grasps the handle 200 can be improved, and thus it is further easy to grasp the handle 200.

[0111] As Figure 17 shown, the outer peripheral edge portion 2044 is formed into an arc shape. Specifically, in the outer peripheral edge portion 2044, the protruding end portion on the front side (protruding direction side) is formed into an arc shape. The outer peripheral edge portion 2044 is formed into an arc shape of a semicircle, for example.

[0112] In addition, on the upper surface of the holding portion 204, that is, on the inclined surface 2041, a protruding rib 207 formed into an arc shape is formed on the inner side with respect to the outer peripheral edge portion 2044. As Figure 17As shown, the rib 207 is formed in an arc shape that is the same as the arc shape of the outer peripheral edge portion 2044, for example, in a semi-circular arc shape. In the present embodiment, two ribs 207 are formed on the inclined surface 2041. Thus, when the user grasps the inclined surface 2041 of the grip portion 204, the fingers hook on the ribs 207, making it further easier to grasp the handle 200.

[0113] [Third]

[0114] As Figure 9 shown, a bulging portion 210 that bulges upward is provided on the housing 71 of the developing device 70. The bulging portion 210 is provided on the upper surface 715 of the housing 71. In other words, the bulging portion 210 is provided on one side, i.e., the upper side, of the upper surface 715 in the vertical direction 7 (short side direction) perpendicular to the long side direction (left - right direction 9) of the housing 71. The bulging portion 210 extends in the long side direction on the upper surface 715 and is integrally formed with the housing 71. Additionally, in the case where the housing 71 is composed of a lower housing capable of accommodating the developer and a cover member that closes the upper surface opening of the lower housing, the bulging portion 210 can be integrally formed with the cover member, or the bulging portion 210 can also serve as the cover member.

[0115] In addition, in the present embodiment, a structure in which the bulging portion 210 is provided on the upper surface 715 of the housing 71 is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this structure. The bulging portion 210 can also be provided on any surface on the short side direction side of the housing 71. For example, it can be provided on the front surface 714 or the lower surface 716 of the housing 71 (refer to Figure 20 ).

[0116] Figure 20 is Figure 11 a cross - sectional view taken along the cutting plane XX - XX. The bulging portion 210 is a part that expands the accommodation volume inside the housing 71. As Figure 20 shown, the bulging portion 210 bulges upward (outward) from the upper surface 715. Thus, the accommodation volume of the developer inside the housing 71 expands by the volume of the hollow portion 211 inside the bulging portion 210.

[0117] In the present embodiment, the bulging portion 210 has a vertical surface 2102 that extends downward from the top 2101 on the front side and an inclined surface 2103 that extends obliquely downward to the rear from the top 2101 when viewed in cross - section. When viewed from the side, it is formed in a substantially triangular shape. Therefore, the height dimension of the part on the rear side of the developing device 70, that is, the part on the insertion direction side where the developing device 70 is inserted into the device main body 11, can be made smaller than the height dimension of the part on the front side. Thus, it is easy to install the developing device 70 on the device main body 11.

[0118] Figure 21It is an enlarged view of the central portion of the bulging portion 210 of the developing device 70. As Figure 21 shown, a concave portion 220 is provided in the central portion of the bulging portion 210. The concave portion 220 is provided in the central portion of the bulging portion 210 in the longitudinal direction.

[0119] The concave portion 220 extends in the front-rear direction 8 in the bulging portion 210. The concave portion 220 is formed in a shape in which the central portion of the bulging portion 210 is recessed downward, and is formed in a groove shape surrounded by a bottom surface 221 and a pair of side surfaces 222 that incline from the top portion 2101 and the inclined surface 2103 to the bottom surface 221. The bottom surface 221 is a surface parallel to the upper surface 715. The side surface 222 forms a prescribed angle (an obtuse angle greater than 90 degrees) with the bottom surface 221. The said angle is, for example, an angle determined within a range greater than 90 degrees and 150 degrees or less.

[0120] Since the concave portion 220 is configured in the above-described manner, when the user holds and picks up the developing device 70 with one hand, the user can hold it in such a manner that the fingers of his / her hand are placed on the concave portion 220. Thereby, it is easy for the user to hold the developing device 70 with one hand, and even with one hand, the developing device 70 can be firmly and stably held. As a result, it is possible to prevent the developing device 70 from dropping during the operation of the developing device 70.

[0121] In addition, since the inclined side surface 222 is provided in the concave portion 220, for example, when the user wants to grope and hold the developing device 70 in a state where the developing device 70 cannot be reliably visually recognized, when the finger is placed on the side surface 222, the user can grasp the position of the bottom surface 221 of the concave portion 220 through the interval received by the finger. Thereby, the user shifts the position of the finger to the bottom surface 221 of the concave portion 220, and can firmly place the finger on the concave portion 220.

[0122] [Fourth]

[0123] Figure 22 It is a perspective view of the developing device 70. Figure 22 It shows the lower surface 716 of the developing device 70, that is, the lower surface 716 of the housing 71. In addition, Figure 23 It is a perspective view showing the drum unit 60 included in the image forming apparatus 10.

[0124] As described above, the developing device 70 can be detachably supported by the drum unit 60 as a mounting member. Specifically, the developing device 70 can be detachably supported on a developing support portion 65 provided on the housing 64 of the drum unit 60 (refer to Figure 7 ). In a state where the developing device 70 is mounted on the developing support portion 65, it is necessary to prevent the position of the developing device 70 from shifting. Therefore, as Figure 22 shown, a positioning member 230 is provided on the housing 71.

[0125] The positioning member 230 is provided on the lower surface 716 of the housing 71. The lower surface 716 is a supported surface that is supported when the developing support portion 65 mounts the developing device 70. That is, the lower surface 716 of the developing device 70 is supported by the second base frame 651 (refer to Figure 23 ) of the developing support portion 65. In the present embodiment, the positioning member 230 is provided at the left end portion in the lower surface 716.

[0126] In addition, in the present embodiment, a structure in which the positioning member 230 is provided at the left end portion of the lower surface 716 is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this structure. The positioning member 230 may be provided at the central portion of the lower surface 716 or may be provided at the right end portion. In addition, a plurality of positioning members 230 may be provided on the lower surface 716.

[0127] In a state where the developing device 70 is mounted on the developing support portion 65 (mounted state), the positioning member 230 engages with a notch 654 (positioning hole) formed in the second base frame 651. Specifically, in the mounted state, the positioning member 230 is inserted into the notch 654. Thereby, the developing device 70 is positioned so as not to be displaced in the front-rear direction 8 and the left-right direction 9 with respect to the developing support portion 65 of the drum unit 60.

[0128] The positioning member 230 projects vertically from the lower surface 716. In addition, the positioning member 230 is a narrow rib-shaped member that extends in the short side direction (for example, the front-rear direction 8) perpendicular to the long side direction (left-right direction 9) of the housing 71 on the lower surface 716. In the present embodiment, when the developing device 70 is inserted into the mounting position in the developing support portion 65, the positioning member 230 extends in the direction (rearward) of each guide portion 77L1, 77R2, 78 that guides the developing device 70.

[0129] As Figure 23 shown, a notch 654 is formed in the second base frame 651 of the developing support portion 65. When the developing device 70 has mounting interchangeability with respect to the developing support portion 65 of the drum unit 60, that is, when the developing device 70 can be mounted on the developing support portion 65 of the drum unit 60, the positioning member 230 is provided at a position corresponding to the notch 654, that is, a position where it can be inserted into the notch 654. In this case, the developing device 70 is appropriately mounted on the developing support portion 65 of the drum unit 60. That is, in a state where the developing device 70 is mounted on the developing support portion 65, the positioning member 230 is inserted into the notch 654.

[0130] On the other hand, when the developing device 70 does not have mounting interchangeability with the developing support portion 65 of the drum unit 60, the positioning member 230 is provided at a position not corresponding to the notch 654, that is, a position where it cannot be inserted into the notch 654. In this case, even if the developing device 70 is inserted into the developing support portion 65 of the drum unit 60, the positioning member 230 abuts against the second base frame 651. Therefore, the developing device 70 cannot be mounted on the developing support portion 65 of the drum unit 60. Thus, in the present embodiment, the positioning member 230 functions in the same manner as the interchange member 240 described later. That is, the positioning member 230 forms a part of the interchange member 240.

[0131] In addition, in the present embodiment, the positioning member 30 is formed to be longer in the short side direction and to have a longer protruding length than the interchange member 240 described later. Further, the notch 654 corresponding to the positioning member 30 is formed to be longer in the short side direction and to have a deeper notch depth. Therefore, when the positioning member 230 is inserted into the notch 654, the developing device 70 can be accurately positioned with respect to the developing support portion 65.

[0132] As Figure 22 shown, in the housing 71, an interchange member 240 is provided at a position adjacent to the positioning member 230. The interchange member 240 is a member required to prevent an inappropriate developer from being supplied to the image forming apparatus 10 when an inappropriate other developing device is mounted on the image forming apparatus 10 with respect to the drum unit 60. In the present embodiment, the interchange member 240 is a member that can be alternatively mounted with respect to the drum unit 60. Specifically, the interchange member 240 is a member for enabling only the developing device 70 having mounting interchangeability to be mounted on the developing support portion 65 of the drum unit 60.

[0133] As Figure 22 shown, three interchange members 240 are provided on the lower surface 716. Each interchange member 240 is provided on the lower surface 716 of the housing 71 and is arranged closer to the center side than the positioning member 230. Each interchange member 240 is formed in the same shape and protrudes vertically from the lower surface 716. Further, each interchange member 240 is a narrow rib-shaped member extending in the short side direction (e.g., the front-rear direction 8) of the housing 71 on the lower surface 716. Each interchange member 240 has a shorter dimension in the short side direction and a shorter protruding length than the positioning member 230.

[0134] In addition, in the present embodiment, a structure in which a plurality of interchangeable members 240 are provided is illustrated, but the present invention is not limited to this structure. Only one interchangeable member 240 may be provided at a position adjacent to the positioning member 230. Further, the interchangeable member 240 does not necessarily have to be provided at a position adjacent to the positioning member 230, and may be provided at a position offset from the positioning member 230 on the lower surface 716. For example, when the positioning member 230 is provided at the left end portion of the lower surface 716, the interchangeable member 240 may be provided at the central portion or the right end portion of the lower surface 716.

[0135] Each interchangeable member 240 engages with a notch 655 formed in the second base frame 651 in a state where the developing device 70 is mounted on the developing support portion 65. Specifically, in the mounted state, the interchangeable member 240 is inserted into the notch 655. In the present embodiment, when the interchangeable member 240 has mounting interchangeability with respect to the developing support portion 65 of the drum unit 60, the interchangeable member 240 is provided at a position corresponding to the notch 655, that is, a position where it can be inserted into the notch 655. In this case, the developing device 70 is appropriately mounted on the developing support portion 65 of the drum unit 60. That is, in a state where the developing device 70 is mounted on the developing support portion 65, the interchangeable member 240 is inserted into the notch 655.

[0136] On the other hand, when the developing device 70 does not have mounting interchangeability with respect to the developing support portion 65 of the drum unit 60, the interchangeable member 240 is provided at a position not corresponding to the notch 655, that is, a position where it cannot be inserted into the notch 655. In this case, even if the developing device 70 is inserted into the developing support portion 65 of the drum unit 60, the interchangeable member 240 abuts against the second base frame 651. Therefore, the developing device 70 cannot be mounted on the developing support portion 65 of the drum unit 60. Thus, a structure in which mounting interchangeability is achieved by the interchangeable member 240 and the notch 655 is generally referred to as a non-interchangeable structure.

[0137] As described above, in the present embodiment, not only can the installation of a developing device that does not have mounting interchangeability be rejected by the interchangeable member 240, but also by the positioning member 230. Therefore, the non-interchangeable structure can be achieved not only by the interchangeable member 240 but also by the positioning member 230. In other words, the positioning member 230 forms a part of the non-interchangeable structure. Therefore, by combining the configuration patterns of the respective interchangeable members 240 and the arrangement positions of the positioning members 230, it is possible to increase the number of identifications of non-interchangeable structures corresponding to various types of developing devices 70 without increasing the number of interchangeable members 240. Further, since the number of interchangeable members 240 can be reduced, the structure of the lower surface 716 of the developing device 70 is not complicated, the coordination between the developing support portion 65 and the developing device 70 is good, and the developing device 70 can be smoothly mounted on the developing support portion 65.

[0138] In addition, in the embodiment described above, an example in which the developing device 70 is mounted on the drum unit 60 installed in the image forming apparatus 10 has been described. However, the present invention can also be applied to a case where the housing 64 of the drum unit 60 and the apparatus main body 11 of the image forming apparatus 10 are integrally formed.

[0139] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the developing device 70 that can be attached to and detached from the image forming apparatus 10 has been exemplified. However, the present invention can also be applied to a toner container that can be attached to and detached from the image forming apparatus 10.

[0140] The scope of the present invention is not limited to the above, but is defined by the claims. Therefore, it can be considered that the embodiments described in this specification are merely illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, all changes that do not depart from the scope and boundary of the claims, and the content equivalent to the scope and boundary of the claims are included in the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A developing device that can be detachably supported by an image forming device, characterized in that the developing device includes: A housing capable of accommodating a developer therein; At least one developing roller rotatably provided in the housing; A first support shaft provided at an axial end of the developing roller and formed of a conductive member; A support member having a first bearing portion for supporting the first support shaft and constituting the axial side surface in the housing; And A supply roller rotatably provided in the housing and arranged in parallel so as to be close to and opposite to the developing roller, The developing roller is arranged on the insertion direction side where the developing device is inserted into the installation position when the developing device is installed in the housing, The supply roller is arranged on the side opposite to the insertion direction in the housing, The first bearing portion has a first guiding portion that protrudes outward from the outer surface of the support member and is guided toward the installation position of the developing device during the installation process with respect to the image forming device, The supply roller has a second support shaft provided at an axial end of the supply roller and formed of a conductive member, The support member has a guiding member that supports the second support shaft and guides the developing device toward the installation position, The guiding member is formed of a conductive member, The guiding member has: a connecting portion that penetrates through a bearing hole formed in the support member and is connected in contact with an axial end portion of the second support shaft that protrudes outward from the outer surface of the support member; and a second guiding portion that is guided toward the installation position during the installation process, The connecting portion and the second guiding portion are integrally formed on the guiding member, The second guiding portion is configured to be in contact with a supply terminal of supply bias provided in the image forming device in a state where the developing device is installed at the installation position, By contacting the supply terminal through the second guiding portion, the supply bias is applied from the supply terminal to the second support shaft via the second guiding portion, the guiding member, and the connecting portion.

2. The developing device according to claim 1, wherein The first guiding portion is formed of a conductive member and is in contact with a supply terminal of developing bias provided in the image forming device in a state where the developing device is installed at the installation position.

3. The developing device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second guiding portion is arranged at a position away from the connecting portion in the opposite direction.

4. An image forming apparatus, characterized in that Including: The developing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3; And A photosensitive drum on which a toner image is formed on the surface by development of the developing device.

5. The image forming device according to claim 4, characterized in that It further includes a drum unit that supports the photosensitive drum to be rotatable, The drum unit has a support portion that guides the developing device toward the installation position during the installation process and supports the developing device at the installation position, The support portion has a guiding groove that guides the first guiding portion toward the installation position during the installation process.

Images